4 Different Types of Braces to Consider before You Get Yours

Statistics suggest that about 22% of the individuals who get dental brackets installed are adults.
Why Do I Need to Undergo Treatment?

As already stated, braces help in straightening your teeth. Many individuals come with teeth that grow twisted, crooked or overlapping each other. While there can be several reasons for this, the most common one of all is heredity.

Adult orthodontics offers the perfect solutions to problems in eating and speaking that arise because of irregular teeth. When you visit your orthodontist, you will realize that you have a number of options to choose from when it comes to picking the right braces.

1. Metal Braces
Metal brackets are the most commonly used variants, given the fact that they are also the most cost-effective. The metal installments hold thin wires in place with the help of rubber bands with an aim to put pressure on your teeth to move them to the required position.

These take a little getting used to, and you will be required to alter your diet to avoid consumption of foods that stick to your braces. Hard food is also recommended against, because of the chances of them getting dislodged. A major drawback of getting these installed is that they are too obviously visible.

2. Ceramic Braces
The cost of braces made out of ceramic is typically higher than its metal counterpart. On the plus side, since they blend with your teeth. While getting these installed, you also have a choice between white metal ties and clear elastic ones.

These braces typically will not stain, but chances are that your ties will stain if your consume items such as coffee or foods with color. However, your orthodontist will replace your ties every time you visit for an adjustment.

Remember that ceramic braces are relatively more sensitive and chances of them chipping or breaking are higher. The cost of maintaining them is consequently also high.

3. Lingual Braces
These are essentially customized in a way that they are bonded and hidden behind your teeth. This means that these brackets too can blend with your teeth, allowing you to retain a natural look. On the other hand, they cost more than ceramic or metal braces. Installation is also a little more complicated, hence requiring the services of highly skilled and experienced orthodontists.

Also, you need to check with your doctor on whether or not these braces will work for you. Most of the time, the lingual variant does not work well on smaller teeth. Since they get in the way of the tongue, chances are that they will cause speech problems.

4. Invisible Braces
These aligners are made out of smooth, comfortable and clear plastic, thereby making them nearly “invisible” and providing the highest aesthetic value. The most expensive of all, these are ideal for adults with really major problems with teeth alignment.

Instead of mounting brackets to the teeth, here you are essentially getting custom-fitted aligners installed, which you need to keep on except while you are eating or brushing.

While you are undergoing this treatment, you will be expected to use different aligners for at least two weeks till your teeth gradually move into the desired position. Speak to your orthodontist to understand which type of braces offer the best functionality in the long run.